dlstewart's Full Review: Smead Manila File Folders, 100% Recycled, Single P...
Our office couldn't manage without file folders. There are too many things to keep track of, and we will never be one of those future "paperless" offices. One type of file folders that we use are Smead 100% Recycled Manila File Folders in the Letter Size (item # 10339).
Description
A box of these manila folders has 100 folders. The tabs are a 1/3 cut (left, middle, right). These letter-size folders are a single-ply. Along the bottom are several score lines so that the folders can expand as their contents grows.
The box containing these file folders is marked 100% Recycled. Smaller print on the box reads, "Minimum 10% Post-Consumer Recycled Content".
Our Experiences
We have a lot of departments in our company, and all of them archive files. There are "working" files, which see daily use, files that see once a week or month attention, others that are accessed yearly, and lots of files that are archived.
Not all manila file folders are the same. One might think that since they look alike that they would also wear equally well. Not true. There are differences.
These particular folders are made from 100% recycled material and are a single-ply. Comparing them to other manila folders (standard issue, economy "on sale" folders) ... the Smead recycled folders are different.
Texture - These Smead recycled manila folders have a different feel to them. Other brands of "regular" folders have a very smooth texture. The Smead folders feel just barely rough under the fingertips. It is nothing that is bad; it's just a bit different.
Sturdiness - The single-ply Smead folders are not as stiff as other "regular" manila folders. They more easily bend with greater flexibility. If you use these Smead folders for storing papers that seldom see use, then these are great. If you intend these folders for heavy-duty use, the folders will definitely begin to show wear.
Tabs - Traditional 1/3 cut tabs are spaced along the top of these folders. They are the same size tabs as are on "regular" folders. The tabs and can be written on, or a label can be applied. I usually use a pencil or ballpoint pen when writing on the tabs, or I use Avery file folder labels. Make sure you don't write on the tabs with a Sharpie marker, though. The marker writing will bleed through the folder so that the writing is visible on the opposite side.
Odor - These recycled folders have no scent.
Purchasing
Staples sells a box of these folders for $18.99. When I buy economy manila file folders, a box of 100 only costs me about $5.00. If you are counting pennies, these Smead file folders are not an economical choice.
Summary
I am all for recycling and personally recycle quite a bit of material. However, while our office likes the concept of the Smead 100% Recycled Manila File Folders, these folders are not ideal for our office. We need a sturdy folder that can withstand a lot of use and then eventually place that folder in our archives. These Smead one-ply folders aren't sturdy enough for our office.
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